What is the most efficient way to gather stone in the Mountains biome?

Gathering stone in the Mountains biome in Valheim can be highly efficient if you understand the biome''s unique mechanics and prepare properly. The Mountains biome is one of the most dangerous areas in the game, but it also offers abundant stone resources, making it a prime location for gathering. To maximize efficiency, you need to balance resource collection with survival strategies, as the biome is home to deadly enemies like Drakes, Wolves, and Stone Golems, as well as harsh environmental conditions like freezing temperatures.\n\nBefore venturing into the Mountains, ensure you are well-prepared. Craft a Wolf Fur Cape or Lox Cape to resist the freezing effect, as this will prevent constant health drain. Bring a strong weapon, such as a Draugr Fang bow or a Blackmetal sword, to deal with enemies. Additionally, carry a pickaxe, preferably an Iron Pickaxe or better, as this will speed up stone gathering. Stock up on healing meads, stamina meads, and frost resistance meads to sustain yourself during long mining sessions.\n\nStone in the Mountains biome is primarily found in two forms: large boulders and Silver deposits. Large boulders are scattered across the landscape and can be mined for stone, while Silver deposits are buried underground and require a Wishbone to locate. The Wishbone is obtained by defeating Bonemass, the third boss in the Swamp biome. If you haven''t acquired a Wishbone yet, focus on mining boulders for stone. Each boulder yields a significant amount of stone, making it a reliable source.\n\nTo efficiently gather stone, start by scouting the Mountains biome for clusters of boulders. These are often found on slopes or near rocky outcrops. Use your pickaxe to mine the boulders, which will break apart after a few hits. Be mindful of your surroundings, as enemies like Wolves and Drakes can ambush you while mining. If you encounter a Stone Golem, avoid engaging unless necessary, as they are tough to defeat and can waste valuable time and resources.\n\nFor players with a Wishbone, Silver deposits are an excellent secondary source of stone. When you equip the Wishbone, it will pulse and emit a green glow when near a buried Silver vein. Dig down using your pickaxe to uncover the vein, then mine it for Silver and stone. While Silver is the primary resource here, the stone yield is substantial and worth the effort. Be cautious of falling rocks and collapsing terrain while mining underground.\n\nOne common challenge in the Mountains biome is managing inventory space. Stone is heavy, and carrying too much can slow you down. To address this, consider building a temporary shelter or cart nearby to store excess stone. Alternatively, use a portal to transport stone back to your base quickly. Portals are invaluable for long-distance resource gathering, as they allow you to travel without the burden of heavy items.\n\nFinally, always prioritize safety when gathering stone in the Mountains. Keep an eye on your stamina, as mining and combat can drain it quickly. Use the terrain to your advantage by positioning yourself on high ground to spot enemies early. If you''re overwhelmed, retreat to a safe area or use a Bonfire to create a temporary safe zone. With proper preparation and strategy, the Mountains biome can become a reliable source of stone for all your building and crafting needs.\n\nIn summary, the most efficient way to gather stone in the Mountains biome involves preparation, strategic mining, and careful enemy management. Equip frost-resistant gear, bring a strong pickaxe, and use the Wishbone to locate Silver deposits if available. Build temporary storage or use portals to manage inventory, and always stay alert for threats. By following these steps, you can gather stone efficiently while minimizing risks in this challenging biome.